What in the world is SIBO? SIBO stands for "small intestine bacterial overgrowth" and is one of the more common problems underlying a long list of symptoms and conditions. With SIBO, an increased number or an abnormal type of bacteria are found in the small intestine, and colonies of microbes that should be in the large intestine are found there as well. SIBO is a relatively new diagnosis and is not commonly tested or treated, leaving many patients with chronic gastrointestinal problems without any answers or solutions. At New Direction Natural Medicine, we offer both testing and treatment for SIBO.
Symptoms of SIBO:
bloating
excessive gas or belching
abdominal cramps
acid reflux
diarrhea
constipation
nausea
heartburn
fatty stools
nutrient deficiencies (vitamin B12, iron, vitamin A, D, E, K)
malabsorption
Patients with the following conditions are very likely to also have SIBO:
irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
restless leg syndrome (RLS)
fibromyalgia
hypothyroidism
hyperthyroidism
gastroparesis
pancreatic disease
parkinson's disease
celiac disease
liver disease
diabetes
obesity
rosacea
Causes of SIBO
The underlying causes of SIBO include: h. pylori infection, parasitic infection, hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), food poisoning, autoimmune disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, diabetes, excessive antibiotic use, and the overuse of proton-pump inhibitors (i.e. Nexium, Prilosec) and NSAIDs (i.e. aspirin, ibeuprofen, naproxen). In order to prevent the reoccurance of SIBO, these underlying conditions must be addressed.
How SIBO is tested
The most useful, simple and safe diagnostic test for SIBO is through a breath test. Patients drink a substance called lactulose which moves through the small intestine. If small intestine bacteria are present, the lactulose causes them to ferment and produce hydrogen and methane gas, which are exhaled through the breath and measured using a SIBO breath test kit. Following treatment, patients are re-tested to ensure the condition has been resolved.
Treatment of SIBO
Herbal Therapy
The natural treatment of SIBO consists of using several botanical herbs and powerful bacteria-killing essential oils including: berberine, allicin, thyme, and oregano. Customized Chinese herbs may also be prescribed to help to heal and repair the small intestine as well as kill bacteria and prevent the return of SIBO.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is also beneficial in the treatment of SIBO to reduce stress, improve circulation throught the small intestine, support the body to help clear SIBO, and improve digestive symptoms.
The SIBO diet
Diet is very important in the treatment of SIBO. A low carb, anti-inflammatory diet is recommended to reduce inflammation in the small intestine and encourage its healing. Trigger foods are also avoided during the healing phases as well.
Using a combination of botanical and Chinese herbs, acupuncture and diet therapy, we can help you end your digestive troubles once and for all! If you think you may be suffering from SIBO, we can help you. Schedule your consultation at 321-972-2940 and start healing today!